African Violet: profile
Quick answer
African Violet (Saintpaulia) is a compact flowering houseplant from Tanzania/East Africa belonging to Gesneriaceae family, featuring velvety rosette leaves and colorful flowers in purple, pink, blue, and white. Thrives in bright indirect light, 65-75°F temperatures, and 40-60% humidity. Water when top inch of soil is dry using bottom watering method to keep leaves dry and prevent fungal issues.
Start here:
- 1. 1. Water using bottom watering: place pot in tray of room-temperature water for 20-30 minutes
- 2. 2. Provide bright indirect light from north/east-facing windows; use sheer curtains to filter intense light
profile for African Violet
African Violet (Saintpaulia) is a compact flowering houseplant from Tanzania/East Africa belonging to Gesneriaceae family, featuring velvety rosette leaves and colorful flowers in purple, pink, blue, and white. Thrives in bright indirect light, 65-75°F temperatures, and 40-60% humidity. Water when top inch of soil is dry using bottom watering method to keep leaves dry and prevent fungal issues.
How to handle profile on African Violet
- 1
1. Water using bottom watering: place pot in tray of room-temperature water for 20-30 minutes
- 2
2. Provide bright indirect light from north/east-facing windows; use sheer curtains to filter intense light
- 3
3. Maintain 65-75°F (18-24°C) temperature away from drafts and heat sources
- 4
4. Use well-draining African violet potting mix; repot annually in spring
- 5
5. Fertilize with balanced houseplant food at half strength during growing season
Ongoing African Violet notes
Water from the bottom to avoid leaf spotting. Never let pot sit in standing water. Maintain consistent temperature (65-75°F) and avoid cold water which shocks roots. Provide 12-14 hours of bright indirect light daily.